The Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS) has extended the registration deadline for the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Selection Test (JNVST) 2026 for lateral entry into Class 9 and Class 11. Candidates can now apply online through the official portal cbseitms.nic.in until October 21, 2025, giving aspirants extra time to complete their applications.
According to the official schedule, the JNVST lateral entry selection tests for both Class 9 and Class 11 are slated to be conducted on February 7, 2026. Admissions will be offered strictly on the basis of the selection test and available vacant seats for the 2026–2027 academic year. There is no negative marking in the exam, so candidates can attempt all questions without penalty
Exam pattern and duration
The Class 9 JNVST paper typically covers four subjects — English, Hindi, Mathematics, and General Science — with a total of 100 questions carrying 100 marks. The Class 11 paper includes Mental Ability, English, Science, Social Science, and Mathematics, also totalling 100 questions for 100 marks. Both tests will be of 2 hours 30 minutes duration, so time management and revision are key for aspirants
How to apply (step-by-step)
- Visit the official registration portal
- Click the registration link for Class 9 or Class 11 lateral entry.
- Fill in required credentials and upload a passport-size photograph (10KB–100KB).
- Enter academic details and upload student and parent signatures.
- Verify details and submit the application.
After the shortlist is declared, selected candidates must submit mandatory documents — domicile certificate, education certificate, and birth certificate — to confirm admission. The concerned JNV principal will notify selected students via SMS on the registered mobile number and follow up with formal communication by speed post.
Coverage and seats
Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas continue to offer quality, mostly residential education to talented students across India. Currently, 653 JNVs are functional across 27 states and 8 Union Territories, with the exception of Tamil Nadu. Admission is merit-based and depends on seat availability in the respective JNVs for the academic year 2026–27
Tips for aspirants
Start with a syllabus-wise plan, focus on mental ability and subject fundamentals, practise previous years’ papers, and take time-bound mock tests to build accuracy and speed. Since there’s no negative marking, attempt all questions but avoid guesswork that reduces accuracy.
This deadline extension gives students a final window to prepare and apply. Visit cbseitms.nic.in to complete your application before October 21, 2025, and keep documents ready to expedite admission formalities after results are announced, for more details and apply CLICK HERE
